An interactive discussion with the lead singer of a Tla’amin Nation traditional singing, drumming and dancing group is another step toward sharing the culture of the newly self-governing nation.
Nunkum Dancers member Drew Blaney has been instrumental in bringing traditional Tla’amin songs to the forefront of the community. Discover Traditional Tla’amin Music, presented by Powell River Public Library on Saturday afternoon, is a chance for Powell River residents to learn more about the nation’s culture and music.
“I’m really excited and I know a lot of the townspeople have been coming down to Tla’amin a lot more after the treaty signing and are interested in learning about our culture,” says Blaney.
An informal discussion circle will be led by Blaney and he says he hopes those who attend the session will gain a better understanding of the history of Tla’amin through song and dance.
“Our culture here is alive and well and it’s connected to many, many generations of us being on this land,” says Blaney. “I hope everyone gets a sample of our culture because it’s very important for the outside community to see that.”
The group talk will also touch on the history of Tla’amin songs and Blaney’s work in bringing those songs back to the nation through his own research and songwriting.
“The library wanted me to do this because I helped bring out many songs that were hidden in archives in museums around the world,” he says, “and that has helped me in my path of song composition.”
Nunkum Dancers recently went back to their original name, which was used when the group was formed in the late 1990s. Most of the current group members are the children of the original group, says Blaney. “So it’s a new generation of dancers,” he says.
Blaney says being in the group gives him feelings of pride and happiness, something he hopes attendees of the discussion group will understand is very important to Tla’amin people.
“When we have a big group of singers and dancers, like we have lately with the treaty celebrations, it sounds really good,” he says. “You feel really proud about your self and your nation.”
Discover Traditional Tla’amin Music
When: Saturday, May 21, 2-3 pm
Where: Elm Room, Powell River Recreation Complex
Entry: Free
Info: 604.485.8664, [email protected]
